Are Mardi Gras and Carnival the Same?
When people think of Mardi Gras, they often picture the huge parades, colorful costumes, and festive celebrations in New Orleans. However, there’s a little more to it—Mardi Gras is actually just one day, while Carnival is a whole season that leads up to this famous celebration. So, what’s the difference between Mardi Gras and Carnival, and how does each play a unique role in this cultural phenomenon? Let’s break it down!
Carnival vs. Mardi Gras: What’s the Difference?
Carnival is the season, and Mardi Gras is a single day within it. While true, most New Orleans locals commonly refer to the season as "Mardi Gras" as well. Carnival begins each year on January 6, the Feast of Epiphany, and continues up to Mardi Gras, which always falls on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. This Tuesday marks the start of Lent, a 40-day period leading up to Easter.
Carnival is celebrated in many parts of the world, including Rio de Janeiro, Venice, and the Caribbean, each with its unique customs. New Orleans, however, is the city most famous for Mardi Gras, with a tradition rich in parades, food, and festive activities. New Orleans’ celebrations have a distinct focus on floats, themed costumes, and throws—like the city’s iconic plastic beads—that paradegoers love to collect.
Key Differences Around the World
- New Orleans: Focuses on themed parades, unique “throws,” and festive food like king cake.
- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Known for high-energy samba dancing and grand street parties.
- Venice, Italy: Celebrated for its beautiful masks and elaborate costumes.
The Role of Krewes
One of the most distinctive parts of New Orleans’ Carnival season is the role of the krewes, organizations that host the parades and formal balls. Each krewe has its own traditions and themes, and some have been around for decades, passing down their customs through generations.
In New Orleans, krewes aren’t just groups of parade organizers—they’re a community. There are large, mid-size, and even “micro” krewes, and each one adds its own flavor to the season. For example:
- Krewe of Muses: Known for its highly coveted decorated high-heel shoes
- Krewe of Zulu: Famous for their hand-painted and highly-coveted coconuts
Fun Packed into a Single Day
Mardi Gras, or “Fat Tuesday,” is the big finale of the Carnival season. This day is packed with parades and people decked out in purple, green, and gold—the official colors of Mardi Gras. The day before Mardi Gras, known as Lundi Gras (Fat Monday), also has its own celebrations, helping to build the excitement.
Unlike Carnival in other regions, New Orleans has a legally designated “parade season,” spanning the 12 days leading up to Mardi Gras. This structure helps the city manage the crowds and plan the many events that lead up to the main day.
Economic Impact
Mardi Gras is not just about celebration; it’s a major economic driver for New Orleans and the entire state of Louisiana. A recent study shows that Carnival season brings nearly a billion dollars to the local economy and generates millions in tax revenue. Local businesses, street performers, and bakeries selling the beloved king cakes all benefit from this boost, which wouldn’t be as strong without New Orleans’ extended Carnival season.
FAQ About Mardi Gras
What is the difference between Mardi Gras and Carnival?
Carnival is the season that begins on January 6 and ends on Mardi Gras, which is the last day of the season, always on a Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. Most New Orleans locals refer to the season as "Mardi Gras" while some may still use the Carnival term.
Why are beads thrown during Mardi Gras?
The tradition of “throws” began in the early 1900s when parade krewes started throwing beads and other trinkets to the crowds. It’s become an iconic part of the New Orleans Mardi Gras experience.
Are all Mardi Gras celebrations the same worldwide?
No. Each place has its unique customs. For example, Rio’s Carnival is famous for samba dancing, Venice is known for masks, and New Orleans has a tradition of themed floats and “throws” for paradegoers.
Is Mardi Gras a public holiday?
Yes, in Louisiana, Mardi Gras has been a legal holiday since 1875, when Governor Warmoth signed the “Mardi Gras Act.”
What is the Parade Pal app?
Parade Pal is a parade tracking app designed to help users keep track of parade routes, schedules, and events for the New Orleans Mardi Gras season. It’s a convenient tool for locals and visitors alike to stay up-to-date on all things Mardi Gras!
